"THE PLEDGE," by Kimberly Derting, Simon & Schuster, $16.99, 323 pages (f) (16 and up)
“The Pledge,” by Kimberly Derting, is an exceptional piece of young adult fiction. It has a unique storyline that sets it apart from other books in its genre.
The book takes place in a violent country called Ludania. The social classes are divided by the language they speak. A person is only allowed to speak the language of their class and nothing more. If a person is caught looking a member of a higher class in the eye while they are speaking in their native tongue, the result is immediate execution.
Charlaina, also known as Charlie, is a 17-year-old girl who can understand the languages of all the classes. Despite this gift, her very life depends on her ability to hide her secret. Charlie seeks freedom from her oppressive society and finds such a place at an underground club. It is at the club where she meets a boy named Max, who speaks a language Charlie has never heard before.
Charlie is attracted to Max, but she is afraid of his mysterious nature. As her country becomes closer to war, it becomes evident that Charlie will have to use her gift to save the ones she loves.
“The Pledge” takes a while to get going. The beginning of the book has unnecessary details, which makes it seem like it will be a dull read. However, once the readers get into the story, they will not want to put the book down.
Perhaps the most interesting part of the book is the role languages play in Charlie’s society. Readers should be assured that the book is not simply a girly love story.
Though the love story does appeal strictly to females, the book has enough action and plot twists that will intrigue those of both genders.
There is minor sexual content in the book and underage drinking is also present, making it more appropriate for ages 16 and up.
This book pledges to be a worthwhile read.
Shelby Scoffield is a graduate of Brigham Young University and a graduate student at California State University, Stanislaus.